Reducing Employee Stress through Biophilic Design in Public Spaces: An Architectural and Psychological Approach

In the rapidly urbanizing landscapes of modern urban environments, the well-being of individuals is increasingly challenged by the demands and stresses of daily life. As our cities grow denser and more fast-paced, it becomes imperative to explore innovative solutions that address the well-documented issue of workplace stress. This thesis explores the potential of green public spaces to mitigate and reduce the stress experienced by workers in urban settings.The foundation of this thesis is rooted in the recognition that humans are profoundly influenced by their surroundings. This thesis represents a holistic exploration of how green public areas can serve as a powerful tool in alleviating the stressors of modern urban life. The essential role of architecture in fostering a harmonious balance between nature and human life. It posits that architecture should not act as a barrier, but rather as a bridge that seamlessly integrates the natural world into our daily lives. By merging insights from environmental psychology, the science of stress, the concept of restorative environments, and the principles of biophilic design, it offers a comprehensive framework for enhancing workplace well-being, ultimately fostering to inspire more sustainable and health-conscious urban development practices. Chapter 1 delves into the intricate relationship between humans and their environment, shedding light on environmental psychology facts within the context of modern urban settings. It sets the stage for understanding how our surroundings can significantly influence our mental state. Chapter 2 focuses on stress, a common by product of today’s fast-paced lifestyle. It provides an in-depth analysis of the scientific effects of stress on our bodies, emphasizing the need for effective stress management strategies. Chapter 3 introduces the concept of restorative environments and their benefits in reducing stress, balancing hormones, uplifting mood, and restoring directed attention. The chapter underscores the importance of biophilic design, a design philosophy that seeks to connect people more closely to nature. Chapter 4 presents an array of case studies that examine the relationship between workplace stress levels, the restoration theory, mood change, and the incorporation of biophilic design in public spaces. These real-world examples provide empirical evidence of the potential positive impact of green public areas on worker well-being. Chapter 5 takes a proactive stance by proposing a project aimed at reducing worker stress in the vibrant area of Turin’s city center. This proposal involves an analysis of the quantity and quality of green areas in Turin’s Centro district. It further outlines strategies for improving selected areas and creating a project hypothesis for a typical proposal that can be replicated in similar urban contexts globally.